A Program Officer oversees the development of an organization's programs. This may includes staff development, project management, implementation and daily management of activities. May also oversee funds and budgets.
Senior Strategy Officer Stanislaus Community Foundation - 5.0 Modesto, CA Job Details Full-time $90,000 - $110,000 a year 1 day ago Benefits Paid holidays Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Paid time off Vision insurance 401(k) matching Professional development assistance Life insurance Retirement plan Qualifications Spanish Teamwork Program design Master's degree Bachelor's degree Experience working with individuals from underserved communities Full Job Description Stanislaus Community Foundation Senior Strategy Officer Modesto, California | Full-Time, Exempt | Reports to President & CEO
TO APPLY
Send cover letter and resume to: Open until filled.
Target start:
Q4 2026 or
Q1 2027 ABOUT STANISLAUS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
Established in 2002, the Stanislaus Community Foundation (SCF) is the central philanthropic institution of Stanislaus County — a community of 557,000 residents in California's Central Valley. With over $63M in assets, 228 active funds, and $9.4M in recent annual grantmaking, SCF has evolved from a transactional grantmaker into a catalytic leader working to build a thriving, resilient, and equitable community. SCF operates the Porges Nonprofit Excellence Initiative, supports civic infrastructure investments such as the new nonprofit newsroom The Modesto Focus, and incubates the Stanislaus 2030 economic transformation initiative. SCF is developing a bold 10-year leadership framework that will guide its work through 2037 — advancing systems-change strategies across five community domains including economic opportunity, youth development, health, civic life, and housing.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Strategy Officer is one of two senior program officers responsible for designing, leading, and managing SCF's community impact work within specific domains of the emerging 10-year framework. Reporting directly to the President & CEO, the Senior Strategy Officer serves as both a strategic thinker and a hands-on practitioner — building the community partnerships, grantmaking strategies, and cross-sector relationships that advance SCF's mission. This is not a grants processing role. The Senior Strategy Officer is one of two leadership positions that develop strategy, work across sectors, represent SCF credibly in the community, and help translate a bold organizational vision into programs and partnerships that produce real change in Stanislaus County. The ideal candidate brings 6-10 years of experience in philanthropy, community development, or a related field; demonstrated success building partnerships and programs; and a genuine connection to and curiosity about the Central Valley and the communities SCF serves. Candidates with local vested relationships and experience working with youth as well as civic engagement efforts are encouraged to apply.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Serve as an architect of specific components of SCF's 10-year leadership framework — developing strategy, priorities, and action plans within assigned community domains in close partnership with the CEO. Design and manage grantmaking within assigned domains — including program design, grant cycles, grantee relationships, evaluation, and alignment with community needs and donor priorities. Convene and build — facilitating partnerships with nonprofits, government agencies, community residents, and funders; representing SCF in regional networks and funder tables relevant to their domains. Lead learning and accountability within their portfolio — tracking outcomes, contributing to SCF's impact measurement framework, and bringing data and community voice into strategic decisions.
QUALIFICATIONS 6-10
years of progressive experience in philanthropy, community development, nonprofit management, program design, or a related field. Systems awareness — able to identify gaps and opportunities within complex community ecosystems and develop creative, evidence-informed responses. Demonstrated success building partnerships and working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders — nonprofits, government, funders, and community members — toward shared outcomes. Experience working in a nonprofit or school setting with youth and also experience in civic engagement efforts more broadly. Experience in building civic leadership programs is strongly preferred. Knowledge of and commitment to Stanislaus County or the broader Central Valley, or a demonstrated ability to quickly develop genuine regional rootedness. Strong track record working with Latino communities and other historically underserved populations, with an explicit commitment to racial and economic equity. Experience designing and managing grant programs or community initiatives with rigor, transparency, and a community-centered approach. Excellent communication skills — written, verbal, and facilitative — with the ability to work credibly across a wide range of audiences. Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in Public Administration, Public Policy, Social Work, or a related field preferred. Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred. Core Competencies Systems thinking and strategic leadership Community-centered problem solving Cross-sector relationship building Facilitation and convening Grantmaking design and oversight Creativity and innovation mindset Data-driven decision making Coaching and collaboration Storytelling and public communication Operational and project management High emotional intelligence and adaptability
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Salary range: $90,000-$110,000 commensurate with experience. SCF offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid holidays and generous vacation; and 401(k) with employer match.
HOW TO APPLY
Please send the following to : A cover letter describing your interest in SCF and this role, your connection to or understanding of the Central Valley, and the specific domains of SCF's framework where you believe your experience is strongest A current resume Target start: early November 2026
Pay:
$90,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Vision insurance